Venuelust newsletter

Thanksgiving is just a few days away and if you're like me, you are thinking of creative decor that not only looks good, sets your gathering a part as well as stirs up conversation among your guests! We have scoured the many DIY options that are not only cute, but easy and not too time consuming.

I absolutely love the idea of using the gourds that I have gathered during this fall season from Trader Joe's that are displayed throughout my house and now turning them into candles which assist in bringing the warmth of Thanksgiving. You will need: gourds or small pumpkins, a drill, a spade drill bit, tea lights and a sharp knife. Revel does a fabulous job of taking you through these steps.

When having a sit down gathering, you always have that moment where everyone is trying to find their seat or who they want to sit by. This is where you can not only have a bit of control over the setting (not letting Uncle Allen feed Josh different pranks to pull during dinnertime), but also bring your creative vibe and warm fuzzies to the table. Here are two great place card options that will not only show people the seating arrangement, but add a little more fabulous fall texture to your tablescape. Country Living gives you the details on how to create this lovely setting...

I am absolutely in LOVE with this idea. It is a tradition at our family Thanksgiving to go around the table {before dessert} and share what we are most thankful for. This element takes it a bit further. There is something about writing it down that solidifies it a bit more. I would even be tempted to take this fabulous idea to the next level and save these to share with the dinner guests next year as a reflection element. A Bird's Leap put this DIY project together nicely for us all to follow...

I went straight to the store {Michael's} when I saw this concept. I am one who has a chalkboard wall, labels and the list may go on. This design of having the menu on the place setting not only eliminates or minimizes the question(s) of what is for Thanksgiving dinner, but gives the breadth of all the options. They take their cute little place holders off and, BAM, another great and creative idea right in front of them. Brilliant idea Mendez Manor

Conversation starters are always welcome at gatherings and what better way to make the Thanksgiving cheer appear and inspire those around who may not be in the thankful spirit then to create a space where they can add to it in private or public. You will need: branches, paper {patterned on one side or not}, a jar, and a pen or pencil. Simply Vintage Girl's Thankful Tree inspiration is not only a great conversation piece, but it can add more character to your celebration.

This is a two-fold craft and DIY decor that will bring a few chuckles, possibly some "awww, cute" or maybe even a few "what a great idea" to your Thanksgiving. You can either make these adorable Pear Turkeys to have on your table, around the kitchen or have it as a after dinner craft for the kids who are there. Craft Unleashed shows you just how to make these fruity "feathered" friends...

Now that we have a craft for the kids, we should have a little Thanksgiving flair for the adults as well. Let's turn that pumpkin that you never carved and is just sitting there into a ice bucket that can hold wine, brews or what not. I also love the little accent tag on the pumpkin stem that tells what the beverage is. Details make such an impact on your guests and Cheryl Style knows just how to make those little impressions count.

Your Turn…

What fun little DIY Thanksgiving decor did or are you creating for your festivities?